Influence of hamstring muscle extensibility on spinal curvatures in young athletes

Abstract

Summary Objectives To determine whether the degree of hamstring muscle extensibility influences the sagittal spinal curvatures in standing, slumped sitting, and maximal trunk flexion on young athletes. Methods Sixty-five elite paddlers (mean age: 13.35 ± 0.61 years) participated in the study. The thoracic and lumbar angles were measured with a Unilevel inclinometer in relaxed standing, slumped sitting, and maximal trunk flexion with knees extended. Pelvic angle was also measured in the maximal trunk flexion. Hamstring muscle extensibility was determined in both legs by passive straight leg raise test (PSLR). The sample was divided into three groups with regards to PSLR angle: (1) reduced extensibility (PSLR 80°, n = 22). Results The ANOVA analysis showed significant differences among groups for thoracic (p Conclusions The hamstring muscle extensibility influences the thoracic and pelvic postures when maximal trunk flexion was performed. A systematic stretching programme to improve hamstring extensibility should be incorporated to training activities.